Sound, temperature and motion alarm for vehicle occupants and pets

ABSTRACT

Systems, devices and methods of using sound detectors, motion detectors and temperature sensors inside vehicles for activating alarms to protect vehicle occupants that can include babies, children, infirm, elderly and pets. Mounted sound detector(s), motion detector(s) and temperature sensor are used wherein detected sound from the sound detector can activate the motion temperature sensor and motion detected to activate adjacent or remote alarms when unsafe cold and warm interior vehicle temperatures are reached. Low battery indicators such as audible alarms, chirp sounds and lights can be used to indicate low battery power supplies.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a Divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/317,326 filed Jun. 27, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,384,647, which is aContinuation In Part (CIP) of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/087,408 filed Nov. 22, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,381,855, which is aContinuation In Part (CIP) of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/757,050 filed Feb. 1, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,381,856, which is aContinuation In Part (CIP) of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/646,030 filed Oct. 5, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,381,857. The entiredisclosure of each of the applications referenced in this paragraph areincorporated by reference.

FIELD OF INVENTION

This invention relates to vehicles and alarms, and in particular tosystems, devices and methods of using sound detectors, motion detectorsand temperature sensors inside vehicles for activating alarms to protectvehicle occupants that include babies, children, infirm, elderly andpets.

BACKGROUND AND PRIOR ART

The press has an increasing number of stories about occupants left inhot cars that suffer injuries from heat exhaustion to death. In thesummer, there are often stories of children, such as babies that havebeen left in vehicles during hot days, and the babies have died fromtemperatures rising up to 130 degrees F. or more. These stories oftenrevolve around a child being strapped to a car seat, and left for aslittle as a short period of time with the windows generally rolled up.

This problem also occurs to others that are also not very mobile such asthe infirm and elderly. Additionally parked vehicles in parking lots canoften be found with pets, such as dogs, and cats locked in the vehiclesduring hot days. Similarly, the pet is left at the mercy of dangeroustemperatures that can also result in injuries up to death.

The children, infirm, elderly and pets will often have to rely on thestranger passing by to be saved from these heat related dangers. Oftenthe passerby will not be able to save the vehicle occupants unless thevehicle is broken into, and sometimes it is too late at that stage.

Various devices have been proposed over the years as heat alarms forvehicle occupants. However, a large number of such devices requiresensors/transducers that must attach directly to an existing rear seatin a vehicle or a child's car seat. See for example, U.S. Pat. No.5,949,340 to Rossi; U.S. Pat. No. 6,812,844 to Burgess; U.S. Pat. No.6,922,622 to Dulin et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 7,170,401 to Cole; U.S. Pat.No. 7,701,358 to White et al.; and U.S. Patent Application Publications:2005/0225440 to Simmons et al.; 2005/0275260 to Patterson et al.;2007/0096891 to Sheriff et al.; 2009/0277190 to Piette; and 2010/0090836to Trummer

However, these devices generally require having a child strapped to anexisting car seat or to a separate child's car seat. Additionally, thesedevices generally require the use of sensors, such as a pressuretransducer attached to the seat that will only be activated by theweight of the sitting child.

These devices are generally not easily moveable from vehicle to vehicle.Devices attached to the existing car seats must be securely mounted andcannot be easily removed. The child car seat sensor devices generallyrequire a consumer to purchase a new child car seat since these sensorsare usually built into the seat. Most families with children alreadyhave their own car seats, and would most likely not want to change out afunctioning car seat.

Additionally, child car seat mounted devices will not work for otherpassengers in the vehicle that come into contact with dangerous heatedtemperatures. For example, an elderly person or older child sitting in afront passenger seat or another seat not having the car seat alarm wouldnot be protected against the dangerous heat conditions. Additionally,pets are usually not strapped into child seats or to existing seats in avehicle. A dog or cat would not be protected by devices that areattached to an existing car seat or removable child seat.

Still furthermore, the prior art does not describe, teach or suggestsolutions to problems where the interior temperature inside of a vehiclecan become too cold. For example, during winter months, babies,children, infirm, elderly and pets are also subject to unsafe anddangerous conditions when the temperature inside the vehicle becomes toocold, such as at cool temperatures down to freezing temperatures and thelike. Hypothermia can be a deadly enemy that can kill unsuspectingbabies, children, infirm, elderly and pets left inside of vehicles.

Additionally, power supplies for internal alarms generally require abattery to supply power to detectors. Continuously running a detector,such as a motion detector all the time, can run down the battery, andreducing the lifespan of the battery. This is further undesirable sincethe user has to constantly check and replace or recharge the batterywhich takes time and can result in system failures.

Thus, the need exists for solutions to the above problems with the priorart.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A primary objective of the present invention is to provide systems,devices and methods of using sound detectors, motion detectors andtemperature sensors inside vehicles for activating alarms to protectvehicle occupants that include babies, children, infirm, elderly andpets from unsafe heat and cold temperatures.

A second objective of the invention is to provide systems, devices andmethods of activating temperature heat and cold alarms inside vehiclesthat do not require car seats with built in sound detectors, motiondetectors and temperature sensors.

A third objective of the invention is to provide systems, devices andmethods of activating heat and cold temperature alarms inside vehiclesbased on sound detectors, motion detectors and temperature sensors,where the occupant can be located in any part of the vehicle, such asthe front seat, back seat, rear compartments such as third row seats,and the like.

A fourth objective of the invention is to provide systems, devices andmethods of activating heat and cold temperature alarms inside vehicles,based on sound detectors, motion detectors and temperature sensors, thatdo not require permanent installation and can be retrofitted into anytype vehicle.

A fifth objective of the invention is to provide systems, devices andmethods of activating heat and cold temperature alarms inside vehicles,based on sound detectors, motion detectors and temperature sensors, thatcan be relocated, transferable and portable from vehicle to vehicle.

A sixth objective of the invention is to provide systems, devices andmethods of activating heat and cold temperature alarms inside vehicles,based on sound detectors, motion detectors and temperature sensors, thatcan be easily wired to an existing vehicle horn.

A seventh objective of the invention is to provide systems, devices andmethods of activating heat and cold temperature alarms inside vehicles,based on sound detectors, motion detectors and temperature sensors, thatcan activate an external alarm that is audible both inside and outsideof the vehicle without a user having to install separate wiring into avehicle and without having to connect all components to a vehiclebattery and horn.

An eighth objective of the invention is to provide systems, devices andmethods of activating heat and cold temperature alarms inside vehicles,based on sound detectors, motion detectors and temperature sensors, thatcan activate both an internal alarm inside of a vehicle's passengercompartment as well as simultaneously activate an existing vehicle horn.

A ninth objective of the invention is to provide systems, devices andmethods of activating heat and cold temperature alarms inside vehiclesbased on sound detectors, motion detectors and temperature sensors, thatcan be mountable to vehicle seat headrests.

A tenth objective of the invention is to provide systems, devices andmethods of activating heat and cold temperature alarms inside vehicles,based on sound detectors, motion detectors and temperature sensors,wherein an alarm can possibly activate both a built-in alarm and alsothe vehicle horn.

An eleventh objective of the invention is to provide systems, devicesand methods of activating an alarm for indicating unsafe cold and unsafeheat levels inside vehicles, based on sound detectors, motion detectorsand temperature sensors, by sounding a Morse Code “SOS” signal of 3short signals, 3 long signals and 3 short signals on a vehicle horn,and/or on another alarm.

A twelfth objective of the invention is to provide systems, devices andmethods of activating an alarm for indicating unsafe cold and unsafeheat levels inside vehicles, that saves power and maximizes lifespan ofbattery power supplies by using only a microphone detector (soundsensor) to be in continuous on position, and leaving off other detectorssuch as motion detector(s) and temperature sensor(s), during a listenmode stage.

A version of the vehicle temperature alarm system can include a housingwith a sound detector, motion detector and a heat and/or coldtemperature sensor, adapted to be mounted to a headrest on a seat insideof a vehicle, an alarm inside of the vehicle, wherein a combination ofoccupant motion detected by the motion detector inside of the vehicleand a selected temperature detected by the temperature sensor above orbelow a selected threshold activates the alarm.

The sound detector and motion detector can include a strap for attachingthe motion detector to the headrest, the strap having hook and loopfasteners for adjustably attaching the housing to different sizedvehicle headrests.

The system can include a single housing for housing both the motiondetector and the heat sensor.

The alarm can be built-in the unit itself and/or include an existinghorn in the vehicle. An SOS alarm signal can be played on either or boththe built in alarm or on the vehicle horn.

The motion detector can include a rear seat facing motion scanningdetector, and a side facing motion scanning detector for scanning afront seat.

The motion detector can include a rear seat facing motion scanningdetector, and a front seat facing motion scanning detector.

The system can include a wireless transmitter attached to the housing,and a wireless receiver attached to the vehicle horn, wherein theoccupant motion detected by the motion detector the selected temperaturedetected by the temperature sensor above the selected threshold causesan alarm signal to be transmitted by the transmitter inside the vehicleto the receiver to activate the horn.

The system can include removable batteries inside the housing forproviding power to both the motion detector and the temperature sensor,and power supply for the vehicle battery being an existing 12 voltbattery inside the vehicle.

The power supply for the audible sounding alarm can also have a built-inbattery supply. The vehicle horn can also be powered by the vehiclebattery voltage.

The system can include a switch having different heat temperaturesettings for different occupants inside the vehicle, the differentoccupants being selected from children, infirm/elderly and pets.

A method of activating a temperature dependent alarm inside a vehicle,can include the steps of attaching a motion detector and heat sensor toa headrest above a seat inside of the vehicle, supplying power to themotion detector and the heat and/or cold temperature sensor, detectingboth motion of a vehicle occupant and a selected temperature has beendetected inside the vehicle, and activating an alarm when both themotion and the selected temperature have occurred over a selected timeperiod.

The detecting step can include the steps of activating the motiondetector only after the selected temperature has been reached by theheat and/or cold temperature sensor.

The method can include the step of providing both a rear seat facingmotion detector and side seat facing motion detector on the headrest.

The method can include the step of providing both a rear seat facingmotion detector and front seat facing motion detector on the headrest.

The attaching step can include the step of strapping both the motiondetector and the temperature sensor to the headrest by a strap havinghook and loop fasteners.

The method can include the step of providing an existing horn in thevehicle as the alarm.

The activating step can include the steps of remotely sending an alarmsignal from a wireless transmitter adjacent to the motion detector andthe heat and/or cold temperature sensor, and remotely receiving thealarm signal by a wireless receiver located adjacent to the vehiclehorn.

The method can include the steps of powering the motion detector and theheat and/or cold temperature sensor from removable batteries, andpowering the vehicle horn by an existing vehicle 12 volt battery.

The method can include the steps of selecting different temperaturesettings for the heat sensor based on different vehicle occupants, andselecting the different settings from the different occupants beingselected from children, infirm/elderly and pets.

The method can include the step of playing an SOS alarm signal on thevehicle horn.

Further objects and advantages of this invention will be apparent fromthe following detailed description of the presently preferredembodiments which are illustrated schematically in the accompanyingdrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a top view of a car with an installed temperature alarm systemshowing monitored subjects and unit having a temperature sensor withmotion detector range of view.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged top view of the headrest mounted motion detectorand temperature sensor unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective unmounted view of the motion detector andtemperature sensor unit of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart running through the operational steps of theinstalled heat alarm system with motion detector and temperature sensorunit.

FIG. 5 shows the system components inside of the unit.

FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of motion detector with temperaturesensor and cell phone module attached.

FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of the motion detector withtemperature sensor and cell phone module of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a top view of the motion detector with sliding temperatureselect switch allowing any temperature from 0 to 160 degrees F. to beselected as the alarm.

FIG. 8A is a top view of the motion detector with sliding temperatureswitch of FIG. 8 along arrow 8A.

FIG. 9 is a top perspective of the motion detector showing digitalreadout used for temperature selection allowing any temperature between0 and 160 F to be selected for alarm.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart for temperature select options for the motiondetector and temperature sensor.

FIG. 11 is a modified flow chart temperature select options.

FIG. 12 is a modified flow chart of FIGS. 4, 10 and 11.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart of another embodiment of a sound detector, motiondetector and temperature sensor version.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the transmitter unit for the embodiment shownin FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a top view of the transmitter unit of FIG. 14 without cover.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Before explaining the disclosed embodiments of the present invention indetail it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in itsapplications to the details of the particular arrangements shown sincethe invention is capable of other embodiments. Also, the terminologyused herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.

A listing of the components in the invention will now be described.

-   10 Motion Detector and Temperature (Heat and/or Cold) Sensor Unit.-   15. Transmitter unit-   20 Front seat.-   30 Monitored subject. Baby, Child, Adult, Senior, Infirm or pet.-   40 Rear motion sensor viewing range.-   50 Back seat.-   60 12 volt car battery.-   70 Receiver Unit.-   80 Car horn.-   90 Side motion sensor viewing range.-   100 Front seat backrest.-   110 Front seat headrest.-   120 Rear motion sensor.-   130 Side motion sensor.-   140 VELCRO® strap to mount Sentry Unit to headrest or backrest.-   150 Indicator LED.-   160 Temperature (Heat &/or Cold) sensor and vents.-   170 Reset button.-   180 Car.-   190 Temperature select switch.-   200 Internal battery-   210 bottom of unit case-   220 Printed circuit board-   230 Cell phone module.-   240 Cable to connect sentry to cell phone module.-   250 Alarm temperature sliding adjustment switch allows 0 to 160    degree alarm setting.-   260 Alarm temperature digital adjustment readout allows 0 to 160    degree alarm setting.-   270 Down adjust button for setting digital readout.-   280 Up adjust button for setting digital readout.-   290 “Set” button to lock in digital readout temperature setting.-   300 Microphone-   310 Transmitter antenna-   320 Top transmitter case-   330 Motion sensor window-   340 Buzzer-   400 sound detector, motion detector, temperature sensor flowchart    Motion Detector with Heat Sensor Embodiment

FIG. 1 is a top view of a car 180 with an installed heat alarm systemshowing monitored subjects 30 and unit 10 having motion detector rangeof view and heat sensor.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged top view of the headrest 110 mounted motiondetector and heat sensor unit 10 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective unmounted view of the motion detector and heatsensor unit of FIG. 2.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3 the novel motion detector and heat sensor unit 10can be mounted to a front seat headrest 110 above a front seat backrest100 inside of a vehicle 180. A strap 140 can have hook and loopfasteners (VELCRO®) that allows the unit 10 to be adjustable attachedabout different sized vehicle headrests 110. The headrest 110 can belocated on a front seat 20 or rear (back) seat 50 or third seat (notshown) inside of a vehicle 180.

The unit 10 can include a rear motion sensor 120 and/or side motionsensor 130, that each can have rear viewing range 40 and side viewingrange 90, each viewing range being up to approximately 90 toapproximately 180 degrees. The motion sensors 120, 130 can detect bothfront seat and rear seat occupants 30.

The unit 10 can also include a combination of a rear seat facing motionsensor 120 and a front seat facing motion sensor 130. The unit 10 canalso include three sensors for detecting rear seats, sides, and frontseats inside the vehicle.

Each of the monitored subjects (occupants) 30 can include babies,children, infirm, elderly and pets, located inside of the vehicle. Theunit can include preprogrammed computer with the pre-selectedtemperature threshold selections, and timer that will be described inmore detail below.

Also, inside of the unit 10 can be a temperature sensor (such as a heator cold temperature sensor) 160 protected by vents on a side of the unit10. The unit can be battery powered by batteries inside of the unit 10,such as but not limited to 9 volt batteries, A, AA and/or AAA batteries.For example, the unit 10 can have a single 9 volt battery (similar tothose used in smoke detectors). FIG. 5 referenced below has an exampleof inside components.

The power supply for the audible sounding alarm can also have a built-inbattery supply. The vehicle horn can also be powered by the vehiclebattery voltage.

A reset switch 170 can be pressed or switched on to activate the unit10, a light 150, such as an LED (light emitting diode) can turn on whenthe reset button 170 is first pressed, and the light 150 turned off toindicate the unit is powered off when the reset button 170 is pressedagain.

Light 150 can be a single color light or multiple color lights, such ashaving both green and red colors.

Additionally, the reset button 170 can have a function to reset the unit10 after the unit 10 has activated alarms.

Additionally, the indicator light 150 can have a low setting or offsetting when button 170 is pressed which indicates low or dead batteryinside the unit 10. The indicator light 150 can also flash differentcolors (such as red) for example, every 6 seconds when it is time tochange the unit batteries. The unit can still function for a short timewhen the flashing has been reached. The batteries are intended to allowthe unit to be operational for at least one year.

The indicator light 150 can also be used as a motion detector(s)(120,130) test light. A double press of the reset 170 can turn on the motiondetector(s) 120, 130. The indicator light 150 can turn red for a timeperiod (for example 20 seconds) while the detector(s) 120, 130 arewarming up. After the warming up the indicator 150 can turn green whichindicates a test period (for example 1 minute test period). Any motiondetected after this 1 minute test period can cause the indicator light150 to flash red and green verifying the function of the motiondetector(s) 120, 130. This test function can time out after 1 minute inorder to preserve battery power.

Additionally, the reset button 170 can be used to reset the motiondetector(s) 120, 130 and reset the unit 10 after an alarm has beensounded or during an alarm sounding condition.

Additionally, the light 150 can blink or be multiple lights, such asmultiple LEDS to function as a visual alarm when the motion detector andsensor unit becomes activated.

Still furthermore, the motion detector and sensor unit can include anextra audio alarm, such as but not limited to buzzer, another horn, andthe like. For example, the 9 volt battery can activate a smoke alarmtype buzzer as an internal alarm inside the vehicle.

As such, the invention can have a dual powered alarm that activates botha vehicle horn under the vehicle hood, as well as a buzzer type alarm onthe unit 10 inside the vehicle passenger compartment.

Additional switches on the unit 10 can include a temperature selectswitch 190 having different positions. For example, temperature selectswitch can have a first position for activating the alarm (to bediscussed) for babies and children for temperatures of betweenapproximately 100 F to 105 F, a second select position for temperaturesbetween approximately 106 F to 109 F, and a third select position fortemperatures at approximately 110 F and higher.

Motion detector and heat sensor unit 10 can have the ability send awireless signal from a transmitter unit 15 to a remotely locatedreceiver unit 70 that can be located under the hood of the vehicle 180.The receiver unit 70 can be wired to both the existing vehicle 12 voltcar battery 60 that is wired to the existing vehicle horn 80.

Although the unit 10 is described as being battery powered, the unit 10can be hardwired and connected to the existing vehicle power, such as toa cigarette lighter adapter, and the like.

The motion detector and heat sensor unit 10 can be set in a “power save”mode by default and the motion detectors (120, 130) are not scanning formotion, until ambient temperature inside the vehicle 180 reaches aselected temperature set threshold. For example, a first position of theswitch 190 would keep the motion detectors 120, 130 off until a firsttemperature of approximately 100 F to approximately 105 F is reached.When the selected temperature threshold is reached the unit 10 themotion detectors 120, 130 turn on and start scanning.

In operation, the unit 10 can be programmed to send a signal to soundthe vehicle horn 80 after a selected time period has been reached. Forexample, the unit 10 can be programmed to sound the vehicle horn 80after approximately 5 minutes when the inside vehicle temperature hasreached at least approximately 100 degrees and motion of an occupant hasbeen detected inside the vehicle 180.

With the novel invention, the horn can be activated for a continuoushorn signal or intermittent horn signal. The invention can also beprogrammed to have the horn emit an emergency signal such as theinternational distress SOS signal when activated in Morse Code. Theinternational SOS being three dits (short pulse signals) followed bythree dahs (three longer signals), followed by three dits (short pulsesignals).

Different scenarios can include the vehicle is already hot, or thevehicle was initially cool, but has been closed up and abandoned with anoccupant (baby, child, infirm, elderly person) inside.

Scenario One: Vehicle Already Hot Mode

In this example, the vehicle has been sitting in the sun with windowsrolled up. The temperature inside is already above approximately 105degrees, and the motion detectors 120, 130 is now scanning for motion.When an occupant, such as a baby or child is placed in a child seat, oron an existing seat, the motion detectors 120, 130 on unit 10 detectsmotion and samples temperature inside the vehicle. Once the temperatureis above the selected set point (here for example, approximately 105 F),a timer inside the unit 10, can start counting and the internal vehicletemperatures is monitored for approximately 5 minutes. If after 5minutes, the temperature inside the vehicle has not dropped below a setpoint (such as for example, below 100 F), an alarm signal be transmittedby transmitter 115 to the receiver 70 under the hood to activate thevehicle horn 80 to run an SOS sequence, and the like.

The invention can work under the condition that temperature inside thevehicle will quickly and rapidly drop below a set point when the vehicleis ventilated, such as when the vehicle is put in motion with windowsopened and/or the air conditioning system in the vehicle is turned on.

This scenario can include a set condition that the alarm will instantlysound off without delay if a higher preselected temperature of forexample, 110 F and motion inside the vehicle are simultaneouslydetected.

Scenario Two: Vehicle Initially Cool, but has been Closed Up andAbandoned with Occupant Inside

In this scenario, the unit 10 is in a sleep type mode. If thetemperature inside the vehicle raises above a set point (for exampleabove approximately 105 F), the unit 10 wakes up and sensors 120, 130begin scanning for motion. If an occupant is then detected, the unit 10starts the timer, which can be programmed to run for approximately 5minutes. If after 5 minutes the interior temperature is still above theset point and motion is still detected, the unit 10 would transmit asignal to the receiver unit 70, which would activate vehicle horn 80 toplay a distress code, such as SOS, and the like.

This scenario can also include a set condition, that the alarm willinstantly sound off without delay if a higher preselected temperature offor example, 110 F and motion inside the vehicle are simultaneouslydetected.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart running through the operational steps of theinstalled heat alarm system with motion detector and heat sensor unit10.

FIG. 5 shows the system components inside of the unit 10. The bottomcase 210 of the unit 10 can include rear motion sensor 120, side motionsensor 130, indicator LED 150, heat sensor and vents 160, reset button170.

190 Temperature select switch 190, internal battery, 200 (such as butnot limited to replaceable 9 volt or A or AA or AAA batteries), andprinted circuit board 220.

Although the described embodiments has the novel unit 10 attached to ahead rest inside of a vehicle. The unit can also be attached to othersupports inside of a vehicle.

Additionally, the novel unit with temperature sensing and monitoring canbe attached directly to an individual inside of the vehicle, such as butnot limited to be attached to a waist of an infant and/or child, and/orabout an animal inside of the vehicle such as formed as a smallercomponent attached similar to a collar on a dog or cat, etc.

With these other applications, the unit can be used with only thetemperature monitor and built-in alarm, so that the temperature of theinfant and/or child, and/or pet is monitored to make sure that dangerousheat conditions are detected and the built-in unit alarm is sounded.Additionally, these applications can also be used with both the built-inalarm and the vehicle alarm.

Still furthermore, the novel system can be used to activate otheralarms, such as in a phone app where a smart phone, such as but notlimited to an IPHONE®, and the like, is sent the alarm signal so that aparent and/or other third party is notified of the dangerous heatconditions.

Additionally, the unit can have other indicators thereon that give outvisual readings of the actual temperature itself so that others canmonitor the temperature. Additionally, the actual temperature readingbeing monitored by the unit can be sent to remote locations, for examplethrough the web and/or by phone apps to smart phones and/or to thirdparty monitoring locations as desired.

Although the above embodiments describe the temperature alarms being setto temperatures for unsafe warm and hot conditions, the invention can beused to activate alarms when temperatures reach unsafe coldtemperatures, and the like. Additionally, the alarms can be set withboth hot and cold temperature settings that activate the alarms.

Motion Detector with Temperature Select Switches for Heat and/or CoolTemperature Settings

FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of motion detector 10 with temperaturesensor 160 and cell phone module 230 attached. FIG. 7 is a bottomperspective view of the motion detector 10 with temperature sensor 160and cell phone module 230 of FIG. 6.

Referring to FIGS. 6-7, the motion detector 10 with temperature sensor(sensing either or both selected heat and/or cold temperature settings)160 can activate the cell phone module 230 by cable line 240. When aselected temperature setting has been sensed, the cell phone module 230can send remote signals to portable phones, such as cell phones, smartphones and the like, on a third party to sound a alarm (either sound,vibration or lights) on the remote phone that a selected temperaturesetting inside the vehicle has been reached.

FIG. 8 is a top view of the motion detector 10 with sliding temperatureselect switch 250 allowing any temperature from approximately 0 toapproximately 160 degrees F. to be selected as the alarm. FIG. 8A is atop view of the motion detector 10 with sliding temperature switch 250of FIG. 8 along arrow 8A.

Referring to FIGS. 8-8A, the sliding switch 250—allows the user toeasily adjust temperature settings to any cold and heat temperaturesettings. Although one switch is used, the sliding switch can have twosliders, one for cold temperatures and one for warm/hot temperatures.The temperatures can range from approximately 0 F to approximately 160F. The term approximately and encompass +/−ten degrees.

FIG. 9 is a top perspective of the motion detector 10 showing digitalreadout 260 used for temperature selection allowing any temperaturebetween approximately 0 and approximately 160 F to be selected foralarm. Button 270 can be a down adjust button for setting digitalreadout selected temperature. Button 280 can be an up adjustment buttonfor setting a digital readout selected temperature. The user can put ina low temperature such as but not limited to approximately 50 F and/or ahigh temperature setting such as but not limited to approximately 100 F.Set button 290 can be pressed to lock in the digital readout temperaturesetting or settings.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart for temperature select options for the motiondetector and temperature sensor, which can be a modified version of theflowchart shown in FIG. 4.

In the previous embodiment hot temperature settings were described, thatcan include approximately 100 F, approximately 110 F and approximately140 F. The invention can also activate the alarms at low temperaturesettings, such as but not limited to approximately 50 F. Hypothermia candevelop if environmental temperatures inside of a vehicle drop toapproximately 50 F and lower. As such, the alarm can sound after acertain delay time has occurred. For example, the invention can allowfor occupants to go into a cold vehicle, and the alarm can becomeactivated after a period of approximately 10 minutes if the interiorvehicle temperature has not risen above approximately 50 F.

The term approximately can allow for +/−10 degrees.

FIG. 11 is a modified flow chart of FIG. 10 showing the temperatureselect options, which covers the sensed temperature sufficient to turnon the motion sensor and/or to set the alarm. In FIG. 10, it was +/−2degrees of the set point temperature. In FIG. 11, it is the set pointtemperature or greater. Additionally, the embodiment in FIG. 11 removesthe features in FIG. 10 that would bypass the timer if the temperaturewas 3 degrees (or more) over the set point.

FIG. 12 is a modified flow chart of FIGS. 4, 10 and 11. In box 319,alarm signals are sent to the receiver. In addition, alarm sounds, textand/or voice messages can be directly sent to smart phones and cellulartype phones, and other types of portable electronic devices, and thelike.

Additionally, the embodiment in FIG. 12 turns the monitor (sentry) on301, no light 302 and solid red light to calibrate and warm up 303.Next, the invention uses blue lights for motion sense test 304, 305,306, 307, 308, 309, 309.1, 310. Red light and/or chirp 311 to indicatebatteries need to be charged or changed 312. Set temperature or above313, motion sensors and blue LED on 314. Motion 314.1 goes to amomentary blue flash 314.2. 30 Sec delay 315 goes to temperature remainsat set or above 316. Motion 317 goes to alarm signal 319 sent toreceiver and/or alarm sounds, and/or text and/or voice message alert issent to smart phones, cell phones and other electronic devices. Pressreset button 320 shuts off alarm followed by feedback loop to blue LEDand motions sensors off 320.1 and to normal temperature monitoroperation 310. No motion (for example, 15 seconds) 318 from temperatureremains at set or above 316 goes back to 30 second delay 315 and back totemperature remains at set or above 316.

In FIG. 11, the invention uses software for indicating low battery byindicating with red flashes and/or buzzer sounds and/or chirp sounds311, 312. A hardware version can use circuitry found in smoke detectorsused in homes where the smoke detector generates chirp sounds toindicate batteries needing to be replaced and/or charged. See forExample, U.S. Pat. No. 7,626,678 to Chapman; U.S. Pat. No. 5,686,896 toBerman and U.S. Pat. No. 5,969,600 to Tanguay which are eachincorporated by reference.

Sound Detector, Motion Detector and Temperature Sensor

FIG. 13 is a flowchart of another embodiment of a sound detector, motiondetector and temperature sensor version of the invention that modifiesthe previous embodiments.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the transmitter unit 10 for the embodimentshown in FIG. 13. FIG. 15 is a top view of the transmitter unit 10 ofFIG. 14 without cover.

Referring to FIGS. 14-15, the unit 10 can include side motion sensor130, indicator LED(s) 150, temperature heat sensor 160, reset button170, internal battery 200 bottom of unit casing 210, printed circuitboard 220, which are components described in detail in the previousembodiments above. Here, unit 10 can further include a microphone 300,such as but not limited to a CUI INC part # CME-1538-100LB, transmitterantenna 310, top transmitter case 320, motion sensor window 330 such asa translucent material, and buzzer 340. The buzzer 340 can be anotheralarm besides the vehicle horn, previously described.

Transmitter inside the unit communicates to receiver underneath the hoodof the vehicle by RF (radio frequency) and each uses respectiveantenna(s) 310 to send and receive RF signals.

The flowchart 400 will be described in reference to FIGS. 13-15. Thereset button 170 can be activated to put the embodiment 10 in a listenmode (default) where the microphone 300 is only turned on, and themotion detector 130 and temperature sensor 160 are both turned off. Aloud sound such as car door slamming sound picked up by the microphone,and the sound level decibels can be programmed to respond to a loudsound such as a door closing. Other sounds such as but not limited to achild, baby, pet making some sounds can further be picked up by themicrophone. This picked up sound then automatically turns thetemperature sensor 160 on.

Temperature sensor 160 then checks for a selected hot temperature (suchas but not limited to over approximately 100 F) or for a selected coldtemperature (such as but not limited to below approximately 100 F). Theselected temperature settings can be pre-programmed and/or selected bythe user.

If a selected hot temperature is sensed, the unit then goes through atimer (such as approximate 10 minute timer), and then the temperaturesensor 160 samples air again, if a selected cold temperature setting issensed, the unit 10 goes back to the listen mode (default step) to startagain. If the selected hot temperature setting is sensed, the unit 10activates the motion detector 130. If no motion inside the vehicle (suchas from a child or pet) is detected, the unit 10 goes back to the listenmode (default step) to start again. If motion is detected inside thevehicle (such as from a child or pet), an alarm, such as but not limitedto an internal and/or external alarm, such as a buzzer 340 to go offalerting others to that an occupant (such as a child or pet) is insidethe vehicle. The alarm can also be an external alarm, such as the carhorn, and the like previously described.

The flowchart 400 also allows for another scenario starting from thelisten mode (default) step, with the motion detector and temperaturesensor being off. A loud noise (such as car door closing) will turn onthe temperature sensor 160. If a selected cold temperature setting(below approximately 100 F) is detected, the temperature sensor 160 canthen sample temperatures every 10 minutes for 90 minutes. If theselected hot temperature setting is sensed, the motion detector 130 isturned on to determine if either no motion or motion is detected tofollow paths previously described. If the sample temperature sensingevery 10 minutes is the selected cold temperature setting, the unit goesback to the listen mode (default) step to start over.

Also, after 90 minutes, the unit 10 can go back to start over at thelisten mode (default) stage and start the process over again. Theflowchart can be integrated into a chip and/or computer and the like.

The embodiment in FIGS. 13-15 allows for a longer lifespan of the unit10 by only having the microphone (sound sensor) to be always on, andsaves the life of battery 200 by keeping the motion detector 130 andtemperature sensor 130 in off modes, which conserves life of the battery200.

Using only the listen mode, can expand battery life of a batteries, upto ten (10) times or more, compared to having the motion detector, andtemperature sensor, and microphone continuously in an on mode. Theamount of battery life can depend on the environment. For example, avehicle parked in a noisy environments, such as a construction site orhigh traffic site, can activate the microphone detector and system morefrequently effecting, such as shortening battery life span.

Additionally other features of the embodiments can be used with eachembodiment. For example, the low battery alarm indicator (audio alarmand/or light alarm) can be activated when the battery life reaches aselected level.

The microphone can further listen not just for motion noise, such as cardoors, it can also sense audible distress from occupants, such asbabies, children and pets to activate the system.

The embodiment in FIGS. 13-14 can also be used to activate alarms whenunsafe cold temperatures have been reached.

While the system is described as having the sound detector continuouslyrunning in the default mode and the motion detector and temperaturesensor being turned off, the invention can also have the sound detectorde-activated while the motion detector and the temperature sensor areboth working to further maximize and save battery life.

The invention can also be part of an onboard computer system, wheretemperature settings, alarms and alarm notification features areprogrammed into the onboard computer or factory pre-programmed or dealerinstalled. For example, an onboard thermometer inside the vehicle can beset to temperatures (by the user or pre-programmed) that can alsoactivate alarms, and/or provide remote notification to portable remotephones or remote computers, and the like, as described with the aboveembodiments.

This embodiment can function as automatic babysitter inside the vehicleto be able to see (with motion detector(s)), feel (with the temperaturesensor(s), and listen (with the microphone(s)).

The invention can additionally have second or more backup monitor andalarm systems. For example, a second alarm can sound off and/or sendmessages, and the like, when temperatures reach selected amounts ofapproximately 120 degrees or more.

Additionally, loud digital voices can be generated by speakers directlyaround the vehicle to get immediate attention of those in the vicinityof the vehicle. For example, a recorded voice such as but not limited to“HOT BABY IN CAR” can be generated from the vehicle.

Additionally, the system can have no on and off switches that will allowit to be accidentally deactivated.

The invention can also be part of a downloadable smart phone App. thatcan be used with the vehicle computer system and the like. The alarmsand monitors can be connected to one's smart phone. Additionally, otherdetector(s), such as a camera(s) can be mounted inside the vehicle toadd another level of detection which can send images of the child, baby,and pet to remote locations, such as to one's smart phone, and the like.Images can give recipients immediate indications of distress of theoccupants.

Optionally, a test circuit can be included which allows the user to testthe sound detector (microphone), the motion detector and the temperaturesensor and battery to make sure each is fully operational so that theuser check the unit periodically to verify the unit works. Each of thesensing devices, can optionally have a switch, such as a button to testeach one of the sensing devices individually.

Additionally, the unit can be built with over-ride features so that ifone of the detectors (sound, motion, temperature) fail or do not work,the other detectors, will still operate in order activate alarms toindicate occupants in the vehicle are under distress conditions.

Still furthermore, the unit can have a periodic self test feature, wherethe unit will test itself periodically, and if any one of the detectorsor battery fail individually or in sequence the unit would send out analarm, such as the low battery chirp alarm to indicate to the user theunit is not fully operational.

The invention can also have a feature of the alarm signal going off canactivate a switch such as a solenoid attached to the vehicle child seat,which would automatically detach the seat buckle, to allow toddlers andabove the capability of self preservation.

Additionally, the activation can include automatically opening thevehicle door, such as but not limited to one or more side doors and/orthe rear hatchback door opening up. A door automatically opening wouldgive bystanders further attention to the vehicle having an occupant indistress.

For babies and toddlers in rear facing child seats, the opening of therear hatchback door can both automatically signal those in vicinity ofthe occupant and immediately help lower vehicle interior temperature.

The unit can further activate the electric windows of the vehicle toimmediately open extending and potentially saving the distressedoccupants life to immediately lower the interior temperature inside ofthe vehicle.

The opening of doors and/or windows also allows for the vehicle occupantsuch as babies, toddlers and children that are strapped in seats theability to signal by crying, yelling to those in vicinity of theirdistress.

The unit can energize the vehicle computer and/or controls by hardwireor RF (radio frequency) using the antennas, and/or the remote controltechnology used on vehicle keys, to automatically lower windows, opendoors, and the like, when the alarm is being activated.

Still furthermore, the unit can automatically turn on air conditioningunder dangerous heat conditions, or turn on heat under extreme coldconditions.

The units can be factory installed by automobile manufacturers, and/ordealerships. Additionally, the units can be purchased over the counterand installed by end users, and/or their mechanics.

Although the embodiments reference the user being able to selecttemperature settings, the temperature settings can also be pre-sec bythe factory or installer. The temperature settings can be set to heattemperature setting(s) or cold temperature setting(s) or to both heatand cold temperature settings.

While the invention has been described, disclosed, illustrated and shownin various terms of certain embodiments or modifications which it haspresumed in practice, the scope of the invention is not intended to be,nor should it be deemed to be, limited thereby and such othermodifications or embodiments as may be suggested by the teachings hereinare particularly reserved especially as they fall within the breadth andscope of the claims here appended.

We claim:
 1. A vehicle temperature alarm system, comprising: a sounddetector, motion detector and a temperature sensor adapted for avehicle; a power supply for supplying power to the sound detector, themotion detector and the temperature sensor; an alarm attached to thesound detector, the motion detector and the temperature sensor; a listenmode where the sound detector is powered on by the power supply, andboth the motion detector and the temperature sensor are turned off fromthe power supply; a temperature sensor power mode where the temperaturesensor is turned on from the power supply when the sound detector picksup a sound in the vehicle; and a motion detector power mode where themotion detector is turned on from the power supply when a selectedtemperature is detected by the temperature sensor, and wherein the alarmis activated when a selected motion level is detected in the vehicle bythe motion detector.
 2. The vehicle temperature alarm system of claim 1,further comprising: a housing for the sound detector, the motiondetector and the temperature sensor; and a mount for mounting thehousing adjacent the vehicle.
 3. The vehicle temperature alarm system ofclaim 1, further comprising: an SOS alarm signal played on a vehiclehorn when the alarm is activated.
 4. The vehicle temperature alarmsystem of claim 1, wherein the motion detector includes: a rear seatfacing motion scanning detector; and a side facing motion scanningdetector for scanning a front seat.
 5. The vehicle temperature alarmsystem of claim 1, wherein the motion detector includes: a rear seatfacing motion scanning detector; and a front seat facing motion scanningdetector.
 6. The vehicle temperature alarm system of claim 1, furthercomprising: a wireless transmitter attached to a housing; and a wirelessreceiver attached to the vehicle horn, wherein an alarm signal istransmitted by the transmitter inside the vehicle to the receiver toactivate the horn.
 7. The vehicle temperature alarm system of claim 1,wherein the power supply includes: removable batteries for providingpower to the sound detector, the motion detector and the temperaturesensor.
 8. The vehicle temperature alarm system of claim 1, furthercomprising: a switch having different temperature settings betweenapproximately 1 to approximately 160 F for different occupants insidethe vehicle, the different occupants being selected from children,infirm/elderly and pets.
 9. The vehicle temperature alarm system ofclaim 8, wherein the switch includes at least three fixed settings. 10.The vehicle temperature alarm system of claim 1, further comprising:controls for automatically opening a vehicle window when the detectedtemperature setting is reached.
 11. The vehicle temperature alarm systemof claim 1, further comprising: controls for automatically opening avehicle door when the detected temperature setting is reached.
 12. Amethod of activating a temperature alarm inside a vehicle, comprisingthe steps of: mounting a sound detector and a motion detector and atemperature sensor adjacent to a vehicle; supplying power to the sounddetector; continuously listening for a selected sound level by the sounddetector, when the motion detector and the temperature sensor are turnedoff from the power; supplying the power to the temperature sensor whenthe selected sound level by the sound detector is reached; supplying thepower to the motion detector when a selected temperature level sensed bythe temperature sensor is reached; and activating the alarm when aselected motion level detected by the motion detector is reached. 13.The method of claim 12, further comprising the step of: mounting thesound detector, the motion detector and the temperature sensor insidethe vehicle.
 14. The method of claim 12, wherein the activating stepincludes the steps of: remotely sending an alarm signal from a wirelesstransmitter adjacent to the sound detector and the motion detector andthe temperature sensor; and remotely receiving the alarm signal by awireless receiver located adjacent to a vehicle horn.
 15. The method ofclaim 12, further comprising: selecting different temperature settingsfor the temperature sensor based on different vehicle occupants, whereinthe different occupants being selected from children, infirm/elderly andpets.
 16. The method of claim 12, further comprising the step of:playing an SOS alarm signal on a vehicle horn when a selectedtemperature setting has been reached.
 17. The method of claim 12,further comprising the step of: automatically opening at least one of avehicle window and vehicle door when the detected temperature setting isreached.
 18. A vehicle temperature alarm system, comprising: a motiondetector for sensing motion in a vehicle; a temperature sensor forsensing temperature in the vehicle; a power supply for supplying powerto the motion detector and the temperature sensor; and an alarm attachedto the motion detector and temperature sensor; a power save mode forturning on the temperature sensor to be powered by the power supply,while the motion detector is turned off, wherein the motion detectorstarts scanning for motion inside the vehicle when a measuredtemperature in the vehicle reaches a selected temperature, and whereinthe alarm is activated when a selected motion level detected by themotion detector is reached; a sound detector for sensing sound insidethe vehicle, when the power supply supplies power to the sound detectora listen mode, wherein the sound detector is turned on to the powersupply, and both the motion detector and the temperature sensor areturned off from the power supply; a temperature sensor power mode forwhen the temperature sensor is turned on when the sound detector picksup a sound inside of the vehicle; and a motion detector power mode forwhen the motion detector is turned on when a selected temperature isdetected by the temperature sensor, and wherein the alarm is activatedwhen motion is detected inside of the vehicle by the motion detector.